Skillet Lemon Chicken With Barley: A Simple Weeknight Meal!

A One-Pan Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Weeknights just got a whole lot easier (and tastier!). Let’s face it, after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. That’s where this Skillet Lemon Chicken with Barley comes in – a complete lifesaver for busy weeknights. This one-pan wonder is packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup. Seriously, you’ll be done before your kids even finish their homework (or maybe that’s just wishful thinking!). We’re talking juicy, perfectly seared chicken, tender barley, and a bright, zesty lemon flavor that’ll make your taste buds sing. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, so you can feel good about fueling your body with deliciousness. Get ready to ditch the takeout menus and embrace a healthier, simpler approach to weeknight dinners. This recipe is so easy, even your kids might want to help out (again, wishful thinking, but worth a shot!).

Key Takeaways: Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley

This one-pan Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution.
It’s packed with protein and fiber from chicken and barley, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
The recipe uses readily available ingredients and requires minimal cleanup (one pan!).
Simple techniques like searing the chicken and properly cooking the barley enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
The recipe is easily customizable with various herbs, spices, and vegetables to suit individual preferences.

1. Weeknight Dinner SOS? This Skillet Lemon Chicken & Barley is Your Savior!

Let’s be real, weeknights are crazy. Between work, kids, errands, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner often feels impossible. You end up staring blankly into the fridge, contemplating takeout for the fifth night in a row. But what if I told you there’s a way out? This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley recipe is your ultimate weeknight dinner SOS. It’s so ridiculously easy, even on the busiest of days, you’ll have a satisfying and healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup; this one-pan wonder does it all. We’re talking juicy, flavorful chicken, perfectly cooked barley, and a bright, zesty lemon punch that elevates the whole dish. Best of all? It’s packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and energized, so you can tackle whatever chaos awaits. So ditch the takeout menus and get ready to reclaim your weeknights with this simple, delicious recipe.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Evenings

Let’s be honest, the biggest hurdle to a delicious weeknight dinner is often time (and dishes!). This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley recipe is designed to conquer both. Forget spending hours prepping and cleaning – this is a one-pan wonder! Everything cooks together in one skillet, minimizing cleanup to a single pan and a few utensils. Seriously, you’ll be done washing up before your family even finishes their meal. And the best part? You won’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. This recipe utilizes a minimal number of ingredients, all readily available at your local grocery store, which means less time spent shopping and more time enjoying your dinner. No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques needed; just simple, fresh flavors that come together beautifully. We’re talking about a recipe that’s as easy on your schedule as it is on your taste buds, providing a perfect balance of speed, simplicity and healthy deliciousness.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Benefits of Chicken and Barley

This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley isn’t just delicious; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse! Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, keeping you feeling full and energized throughout the day. Protein is crucial for everything from muscle growth to immune function. Then there’s the barley – a true hidden gem. This ancient grain is packed with fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling satisfied for longer. Fiber is also incredibly important for gut health, contributing to a balanced and happy microbiome. The combination of lean protein and fiber in this dish makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal. Together, chicken and barley provide a balanced nutritional profile, making it a guilt-free and energy-boosting meal choice. For more detailed nutritional information on chicken and barley, you can check out the USDA FoodData Central database. [Insert Link to USDA FoodData Central here]

2. Gathering Your Ingredients: A Simple Grocery List

One of the best things about this Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is how incredibly easy it is to source the ingredients. No need to trek to specialty stores or hunt down obscure items; everything is readily available at your local grocery store. We’re keeping things simple and straightforward here! You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts (easily found in the meat section), pearl barley (usually located with other grains), a lemon (essential for that zesty flavor!), some chicken broth (for cooking the barley), and a few basic pantry staples like olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor if you’re feeling fancy (but it’s totally delicious without them too!). That’s it! No long shopping lists, no ingredient hunts – just a quick trip to the store and you’ll be ready to whip up this delicious and healthy meal. The simplicity of the ingredient list is part of what makes this recipe so perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Spotlight: Choosing the Best Barley

When it comes to barley, you’ve got choices! The main types you’ll find are pearled and hulled. Pearled barley has had its outer layers removed, resulting in a smoother texture and faster cooking time – perfect for weeknight meals! This is the type we recommend for this recipe as it cooks quickly and still holds its shape nicely. Hulled barley, on the other hand, retains its bran layer, which adds extra fiber and nutrients, but also means a longer cooking time. While hulled barley is a great option for other dishes, its longer cooking time might not be ideal for a speedy weeknight dinner. For this recipe, we’re all about efficiency without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, which is why pearled barley is our go-to. It cooks to a delightful tenderness without becoming mushy, providing the perfect complement to the juicy chicken and zesty lemon sauce. If you’re interested in learning more about different types of barley and their nutritional profiles, you might find helpful resources on websites specializing in grains or healthy eating. These websites often provide detailed comparisons of different barley varieties and offer tips on selecting and cooking them. [Insert Link to a Barley Information Website/Supplier here, if available]

Pro-Tip: Prep Ahead for Extra Speed!

Even though this recipe is designed for speed, a little prep work can make it even faster! The key to a truly efficient weeknight dinner is smart planning. One of the easiest things you can do is prep your ingredients beforehand. This might involve chopping the garlic, zesting and juicing the lemon, and even slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Doing this while you have a few extra minutes—perhaps while the water boils for pasta or tea steeps—will save you precious time when you’re ready to start cooking. Think of it as creating a mini assembly line; you’ll be surprised how much smoother the cooking process goes when everything is ready to go. Another great tip is to measure out your spices and other dry ingredients in advance. This is especially helpful if you are cooking multiple dishes that night.

3. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!

Ready to make this deliciousness? The instructions are super simple, even a beginner cook can handle this! First, you’ll sear the chicken in a little olive oil until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step is key for adding a ton of flavor. Then, it’s time for the barley! We’ll cook it according to package directions, usually in chicken broth for extra richness. While the barley simmers away happily, you can focus on other tasks, like prepping a simple side salad. Once the barley is cooked, it’s all about bringing everything together. We’ll toss in the seared chicken, stir in the lemon zest and juice for that burst of freshness, and season everything with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. That’s it! A simple yet incredibly flavorful one-pan meal ready in minutes. For the most visual learners, we highly recommend checking out the accompanying video tutorial to see the entire cooking process. The video walks you through each step, making it easy to follow along and ensuring you achieve a perfect result every time!

Searing the Chicken for Flavor

Searing the chicken is the secret weapon to unlocking incredible flavor in this recipe. It’s a simple technique, but it makes a HUGE difference! Before you even think about tossing the chicken into the skillet, make sure it’s patted completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a nice, crispy crust. Excess moisture will prevent proper browning. Once your skillet is hot (we’re talking medium-high heat here), add a good drizzle of olive oil. Let it heat up for a minute or two before adding the chicken. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even searing. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and leave them undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Resist the urge to move them around too much; you want that nice sear to develop. Once you’ve achieved a gorgeous crust, you can reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). This method not only creates a delicious crust but also seals in the juices, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken.

Cooking the Barley to Perfection

Cooking barley perfectly is all about finding that sweet spot between tender and mushy. The key is to follow package directions closely, but also to keep a watchful eye. For this recipe, we recommend using pearled barley, as it cooks faster and holds its shape better than hulled barley. Start by rinsing the barley under cold water to remove any excess starch. Then, combine it with your chosen liquid—chicken broth adds extra flavor!—in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer according to the package directions. Cooking times vary depending on the type of barley and the desired texture, so always check the package for specific instructions. A good rule of thumb is to start checking for doneness a few minutes before the minimum cooking time is up. You want the barley to be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Overcooked barley will become mushy and unpleasant. If you’re using hulled barley, expect a longer cooking time – often double that of pearled barley – and be extra careful not to overcook it. The slight chewiness of perfectly cooked barley is a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and zesty lemon sauce.

Bringing it All Together: The Lemon Zest Magic

The final step is where this dish truly shines—the bright, zesty magic of lemon! Once your barley is cooked and your chicken is perfectly seared, it’s time to bring everything together for a flavor explosion. Don’t skip this step; the lemon zest and juice are what elevate this simple dish to something truly special. Start by zesting your lemon—this captures the fragrant oils from the lemon peel, adding a wonderful aromatic dimension to the dish. Be careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath the zest. Then, juice the lemon, and get ready to add that burst of acidity to your skillet. Gently toss the cooked barley and seared chicken together, incorporating the lemon zest and juice. The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the chicken and barley, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. A little goes a long way, so start with a smaller amount and add more to your taste. The lemon brightens the entire dish, adding a freshness that complements the savory chicken and hearty barley perfectly. Taste as you go and adjust the amount of lemon juice to your liking – some people prefer a more tart flavor, while others like a milder, subtle zing.

4. Flavor Tweaks and Variations: Make it Your Own!

This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is a fantastic base recipe, but feel free to get creative and make it your own! Want to add a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will do the trick. Love herbs? Fresh rosemary or thyme would pair beautifully with the lemon and chicken, adding an earthy depth to the dish. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or parsley as well. For a richer flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon or two of Dijon mustard along with the lemon juice. This adds a tangy complexity that complements the other flavors beautifully. Or if you like a smoky flavor, a teaspoon of smoked paprika would be a great addition. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to find your perfect combination!

Spice it Up!: Adding Herbs and Spices

Want to kick up the flavor of your Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley? Let’s talk herbs and spices! This recipe is a fantastic canvas for adding your own personal touch, and herbs and spices are an easy way to do just that. For a more earthy and aromatic flavor profile, consider adding fresh rosemary or thyme. A sprig or two of either herb, added to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking, will infuse the dish with a beautiful, herbaceous fragrance. The slight bitterness of rosemary complements the lemon beautifully, while thyme adds a subtle sweetness. If you prefer a warmer, richer flavor, smoked paprika is a great option. Just a teaspoon or two will impart a subtle smoky depth to the chicken and barley without overpowering the lemon. Another easy way to boost the flavor is with a little extra garlic. If you’re using fresh garlic, add a couple of minced cloves along with the chicken during the searing process. If using garlic powder, simply add a teaspoon or two along with the other seasonings. These additions are easy to incorporate and will significantly enhance the overall taste of your meal.

Veggie Boost!: Incorporating More Vegetables

Looking to make this recipe even healthier and more vibrant? Let’s add some veggies! This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables. A simple way to incorporate more vegetables is to add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Firm vegetables like carrots and bell peppers hold their shape well and add a nice sweetness and crunch. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them into the skillet along with the barley during the last part of the cooking process. Zucchini also works well; its tender texture complements the chicken and barley beautifully. If you’re using vegetables that cook faster than the barley, like zucchini, add them towards the very end to prevent them from becoming mushy. For a truly hearty meal, consider adding some chopped mushrooms. They’ll soak up the delicious lemon-infused flavors and add a lovely umami note to the dish. The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different vegetables to find your favorite combinations—broccoli florets, chopped spinach, or even peas would all be delicious additions.

5. Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Weeknight Dinner

This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is delicious on its own, but a few simple additions can turn it into a truly memorable weeknight meal. A fresh, simple salad is the perfect complement to the hearty chicken and barley. A light vinaigrette dressing will cut through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing contrast. Consider a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and maybe some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor. Another great side dish option is steamed green beans or asparagus. Their slightly bitter notes provide a nice balance to the zesty lemon chicken. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, a side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious pan juices. For a complete meal experience, don’t forget dessert! A light and refreshing dessert would round out the meal perfectly. Think fresh berries with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of lemon sorbet, or even a simple fruit salad. These simple additions elevate the whole dining experience, turning a quick weeknight meal into something truly special.

Side Dish Pairings: The Perfect Complements

While this Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is delicious all on its own, a few carefully chosen side dishes can really elevate the meal. A simple green salad is always a classic and incredibly refreshing complement. The lightness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chicken and barley. Consider a mix of your favorite greens, some juicy cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing. A simple lemon vinaigrette would be particularly delicious, echoing the flavors of the main dish. Another excellent choice is steamed green beans. Their slightly bitter flavor profile acts as a wonderful counterpoint to the richness of the chicken and the brightness of the lemon. The simple preparation method keeps things quick and easy, making this a perfect choice for busy weeknights. If you want something a bit heartier, consider roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of these vegetables, and their slightly charred edges offer a nice textural contrast to the tender chicken and barley. These suggestions are just starting points; feel free to experiment with different side dishes to find your perfect combination!

Make it a Feast: Adding a Simple Dessert

To truly make this weeknight dinner a feast, don’t forget the dessert! You don’t need anything elaborate; a simple, quick dessert is the perfect way to round out the meal. Fresh berries are always a fantastic option. A bowl of mixed berries—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries—with a dollop of whipped cream is both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare. The sweetness of the berries provides a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the main course. If you’re looking for something a little more refreshing, a scoop of lemon sorbet is a perfect choice. The bright, citrusy flavor complements the lemon in the main dish, creating a cohesive and satisfying dining experience. Another easy option is a simple fruit salad. Combine your favorite fruits—melon, grapes, pineapple—for a colorful and flavorful end to your meal. The preparation is minimal, and the refreshing taste will be a welcome finish to a delicious dinner. Remember, the goal is to enjoy a complete meal without spending hours in the kitchen! So, choose a dessert that’s simple, delicious, and complements your main course perfectly.

6. Leftovers? No Problem! Storage and Reheating Tips

Made too much of this delicious Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley? Don’t worry, leftovers are a blessing in disguise! This dish reheats beautifully and tastes just as amazing the next day (maybe even better!). The key to keeping your leftovers fresh and flavorful is proper storage. Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out and absorbing unwanted odors from your refrigerator. An airtight container is crucial for maintaining the quality of your food, especially when it comes to leftovers that contain both meat and vegetables. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat your leftovers, there are a few methods you can try. For a quick and easy reheating, the microwave is a convenient option. However, be mindful not to overheat it, as this can make the chicken dry and the barley mushy. For the best results, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water before microwaving to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat the leftovers on the stovetop in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This method allows for more even heating and helps to prevent the dish from drying out.

Proper Storage for Freshness

Let’s talk about keeping those delicious leftovers fresh and flavorful! Proper storage is key to enjoying your Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley for days to come. The most important thing is to let the dish cool completely before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy food and the growth of bacteria. Once it’s cooled, transferring it to an airtight container is crucial. This prevents the food from drying out and absorbing odors from other items in your refrigerator. Airtight containers create a barrier that protects your leftovers from the elements and maintains their freshness. You can find a wide variety of airtight containers at most grocery stores or home goods stores. Choose a container that’s appropriately sized for the amount of food you’re storing; don’t just cram everything into a tiny container. Make sure the lid seals tightly to create that crucial airtight seal. Once your Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is safely tucked away in its airtight container, place it in the refrigerator. Generally, leftovers should be stored at 40°F or lower, and it’s a good idea to consume them within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. Remember, proper storage ensures your leftovers remain delicious and safe to eat.

Reheating Without Drying It Out

Reheating leftovers without drying them out is key to enjoying that same delicious flavor you had the first time around. The microwave is the quickest option, but it can sometimes dry out food if you’re not careful. To prevent this, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the container before microwaving. This will help to steam the dish, locking in moisture and preventing it from becoming dry and tough. Cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to further trap moisture. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating; it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked than overcooked and dry. For a more even and flavorful reheat, try the stovetop method. Transfer your leftovers to a saucepan and add a little chicken broth or water. Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. This gentle approach ensures the dish remains moist and flavorful, similar to when it was first cooked. Adding a touch of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors and add a boost of moisture.

7. Reader Reviews and Your Experience!

We’d love to hear about your experience making this Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley! Did you make any substitutions? What were your favorite parts? Did you add your own unique twist? Sharing your experiences helps other readers discover new ways to enjoy this recipe and adapt it to their own tastes. Your feedback is invaluable! We encourage you to leave a review in the comments section below. Share your thoughts on the flavor, the ease of preparation, and any modifications you made. Did you add extra vegetables? Experiment with different herbs and spices? Tell us all about it! If you’re feeling extra enthusiastic, why not share a picture of your culinary creation? You can post your photos on social media and tag us—we love seeing your delicious creations! Use the hashtag #SkilletLemonChickenBarley so we can find and share your amazing photos. Your feedback helps us improve our recipes and inspire others to try new things. We appreciate you sharing your culinary adventures with us!

Share Your Culinary Creations!

We can’t wait to see your delicious take on the Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley! Sharing your culinary creations is easy and fun, and it helps inspire other cooks. To leave a review, simply scroll down to the comments section at the bottom of this page. Share your thoughts on the recipe, mention any modifications you made, and let us know what you thought of the overall flavor and ease of preparation. Your honest feedback helps us improve our recipes and provides valuable information for other readers. If you’re feeling extra social, share your culinary masterpiece on social media! Snap a picture of your finished dish—we love seeing the creative plating and variations. When sharing on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, be sure to tag us (Insert social media handles here) so we can see your amazing work. Use the hashtag #SkilletLemonChickenBarley to help us find your post and easily share it with our community. Your photos not only showcase your cooking skills but also inspire others to try the recipe and share their own versions. It’s a great way to connect with fellow food enthusiasts and celebrate the joy of cooking!

Ask Me Anything!

Have questions about this Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley recipe? We’re here to help! Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, and we believe everyone deserves to feel confident in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a complete beginner, we welcome your questions and comments. Do you have questions about substitutions? Unsure about cooking times for different types of barley? Wondering if you can add other proteins or vegetables? No question is too small or too big! We want to ensure you have the knowledge and confidence to successfully create this delicious dish. The comments section below is the perfect place to ask your questions. We’ll do our best to answer them promptly and thoroughly, providing the information you need for a successful and flavorful cooking experience. We’re also happy to hear about your successes and any challenges you encounter along the way. Your feedback helps us improve our recipes and create a supportive online community for food lovers. So, don’t hesitate—ask away!

8. More Delicious One-Pan Wonders to Try!

Loved this Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley? Get ready to explore more delicious one-pan wonders! One-pan meals are a weeknight lifesaver, offering convenience without compromising on flavor. If you enjoyed the simplicity and flavor of this recipe, you’ll love exploring similar dishes. Think sheet pan dinners—roasting vegetables and protein together on a single sheet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. Sheet pan dinners offer incredible versatility; experiment with different combinations of vegetables and proteins to create your own unique meals. Another great option is one-pan pasta dishes. These usually involve cooking pasta directly in the sauce, eliminating the need for a separate pot of boiling water. Many one-pan pasta recipes incorporate vegetables and protein, creating a complete and satisfying meal in a single pan. For a lighter option, try a one-pan salmon dish with roasted vegetables. Salmon cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with a variety of roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, and bell peppers. The possibilities for one-pan meals are endless, so get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

Related Recipes for Your Next Weeknight Meal

Ready for more delicious and easy weeknight meals? We’ve got you covered! This Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley is just the beginning of your one-pan cooking adventure. To help you discover more time-saving and flavorful recipes, we’ve compiled a list of similar dishes you might enjoy. Explore our website for a collection of other one-pan wonders, including hearty sheet pan dinners featuring various proteins and vegetables. We have mouthwatering recipes with everything from roasted chicken and root vegetables to flavorful sausage and peppers. These sheet pan recipes are perfect for a quick and easy meal that requires minimal cleanup. For pasta lovers, we offer several easy one-pan pasta dishes. These recipes often involve cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, resulting in a perfectly cooked pasta with rich, flavorful sauce every time. You’ll find options ranging from creamy tomato-based pasta to zesty lemon-garlic options. Beyond our website, the internet is a treasure trove of delicious one-pan recipes from reputable sources. A quick search will lead you to numerous blogs, cooking websites, and recipe collections offering countless ideas and variations. We recommend checking out [Insert Link to Reputable Food Blog/Website 1 here], [Insert Link to Reputable Food Blog/Website 2 here], and [Insert Link to Reputable Food Blog/Website 3 here] for inspiration!

Can I use different types of chicken besides boneless, skinless breasts?

While boneless, skinless breasts are ideal for this recipe due to their even cooking time, you can experiment with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just remember that they will require a longer cooking time and may need to be adjusted accordingly. You could also use chicken tenders, but keep in mind they’ll cook much faster.

What if I don’t have chicken broth? Can I use something else?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, water, or even white wine for a slightly different flavor profile. The liquid is mainly there to cook the barley, so any liquid that is safe for cooking will work.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prep the ingredients ahead of time—chop the vegetables, zest the lemon, etc. The cooked dish will also store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.

My barley is still a little firm after the recommended cooking time. What should I do?

Add a little more liquid (water or broth) to the pan, cover, and continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking frequently until it reaches your desired tenderness. Every stove and type of barley varies slightly.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They should be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using your preferred method (stovetop or microwave).

What other vegetables can I add besides the ones suggested?

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, peas, corn, or even chopped spinach. Add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, or adjust based on their cooking time.

Key Insights: Skillet Lemon Chicken and Barley

Skillet Lemon Chicken with Barley: A Simple Weeknight Meal!